Halloween health and safety tips

Halloween is one of the most anticipated days of the year for many children eager to dress up and go door to door in search of candy. But Halloween also presents parents with a number of challenges to keeping their kids happy, healthy and safe.

Here are some health and safety tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to help you and your kids get the most out of your Halloween experience:

Parents or trusted adults should accompany young children when trick or treating.

Have children use sidewalks and crosswalks and avoid running out into the street.

Those driving in residential neighborhoods should also drive carefully and look out for young children.

Remind kids to avoid candy if it not sealed in a wrapper and to avoid homemade treats. Examine all treats for potential choking hazards and ensure the wrapper has not been tampered with.

Be careful to avoid any treats that may cause allergic reactions if the child has known food allergies.

Make sure kids eat a healthy and filling dinner before going trick-or-treating.

Limit children's candy consumption. After Halloween, parents might consider limiting children's access to large amounts of left over candy.

If you are giving out treats at your house on Halloween or hosting a party, consider adding some healthy options as well.